Potential Royal Romance Before Queen Elizabeth II

Before Prince Philip captured the heart of Queen Elizabeth II, there were whispers of another suitor in the mix for the future monarch’s affection. Royal historian Hugo Vickers, who authored a personal account of the Queen, revealed during his research that Hugh, the Earl of Euston, later known as the 11th Duke of Grafton, was considered as a possible match before Elizabeth found lasting love.

Vickers noted that the Empress Dowager had a keen interest in her daughter marrying a Grenadier Guardsman, saying, “The Grenadier Guards are the most prestigious among British regiments. If you’re a Grenadier Guard, that’s the pinnacle.” He explained that both Elizabeth and her sister Margaret were housed at Windsor Castle during the war, surrounded by Grenadier Guards, adding a sense of protection, albeit in a rather symbolic manner.

Princess Margaret even mentioned how the castle was surrounded by barbed wire, which, while unsuccessful against potential attacks, certainly offered some peace of mind.

The Queen Mother evidently had high hopes for her daughter to tie the knot with a British aristocrat, particularly Lord Euston. Vickers speculated that there was a time when it seemed plausible for this union to occur. A politician of the time, Sir Henry “Chips” Shannon, kept a diary that reflected a belief in 1943 that Hugh was “destined for a higher destiny – the throne itself.”

Another royal expert, Richard Fitzwilliams, indicated that Elizabeth’s mother might have preferred aristocrats as suitors. Meanwhile, the book suggests that as Hugh pursued Elizabeth, he wasn’t taken seriously by the royal family due to his perceived passivity. Shannon also noted that, by 1943, Hugh was seen as “too lethargic and insensitive.” Conversely, Philip gained favor, with Lord Mountbatten reportedly facilitating his nephew’s chance to win Elizabeth’s heart by sending Hugh to India.

This move effectively moved Hugh out of the picture, though his previous efforts were admirable. As Vickers noted, “Lord Mountbatten surely played a key role in getting Earl Euston a significant position as ADC to the Viceroy of India.” This placement ultimately kept Hugh out of Elizabeth’s immediate social circle.

Interestingly, as the royal narrative unfolded, Hugh was perceived as less engaging compared to Prince Philip. Vickers remarked that marrying Philip was prudent on Elizabeth’s part, emphasizing Philip’s vivacious personality and innovative spirit. While Hugh was indeed a cultured man, he likely would not have influenced the royal family’s direction as Philip did.

After all, in 1946, Hugh married Anne Fortune Smith, connecting to high society and serving closely alongside the royal family for many years. However, the dynamics shifted towards Philip, who, by 1943, had become the more favorable choice due to his military success and charisma.

While Elizabeth did entertain thoughts of other suitors, her heart was clearly drawn towards Philip. Their relationship blossomed through letters during World War II, culminating in a deep connection that withstood familial pressures regarding Philip’s background.

Ultimately, after much persistence, Elizabeth won the approval of her father, King George VI, allowing them to announce their engagement in July 1947. Together, they wed on November 20, 1947, and their relationship proved to be a significant partnership that contributed to the monarchy’s evolution. Philip’s support over the years shaped not just their family but also the royal legacy, demonstrating the strength of love amid the intricacies of royal life.